Exploring a new type of bacteria that can deliver drugs without growing uncontrollably
Dissecting the non-growing-but-active state of a hybrid bacteria-material microdevice
This study is exploring a new device that uses specially designed bacteria to safely deliver medicine and edit genes without letting the bacteria grow out of control, which could lead to better and safer treatments for different diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California at Davis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Davis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11115152 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel hybrid microdevice that combines engineered bacteria with synthetic materials to create a system capable of drug delivery and gene editing without the risk of uncontrolled bacterial growth. The approach focuses on maintaining the bacteria's active functions, such as movement and response to stimuli, while preventing replication. By ensuring that these bacteria do not proliferate, the research aims to enhance the safety and precision of therapeutic applications in patients. This innovative method could lead to more effective treatments for various diseases by utilizing the natural capabilities of bacteria in a controlled manner.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would include patients requiring targeted drug delivery or gene therapy for specific diseases.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions that do not involve the need for drug delivery or gene editing may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide safer and more effective drug delivery systems that minimize the risks associated with bacterial growth.
How similar studies have performed: While the concept of using engineered bacteria for therapeutic purposes has been explored, this specific approach of creating non-growing but active bacteria represents a novel and untested strategy.
Where this research is happening
Davis, United States
- University of California at Davis — Davis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tan, Cheemeng — University of California at Davis
- Study coordinator: Tan, Cheemeng
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.